A clear research paper helps readers understand the question you investigated, the approach you used, the evidence you found and what the findings mean. The exact structure depends on your discipline and assignment instructions.
Start with the research question
Before outlining the paper, write down the question you are investigating and the contribution your paper aims to make. This gives every section a purpose.
Understand the common sections
Many empirical research papers use an introduction, methods, results and discussion. Other disciplines may use a different structure, so follow the assignment brief and your department's guidance.
- Introduction: explain the topic, context and research question.
- Literature review: discuss relevant existing scholarship where required.
- Methods: describe how the research was conducted.
- Results: present the findings or analysis.
- Discussion: interpret findings, limitations and implications.
- Conclusion: summarize the central answer or contribution.
- References: document sources using the required citation style.
Build an outline before drafting
List the main claim of each section and the evidence needed to support it. Arrange the points in a logical order before writing full paragraphs.
Use sources responsibly
Keep accurate source notes as you research. Distinguish your own analysis from ideas taken from other authors and follow the required citation style.
Check the assignment requirements
Paper length, headings, citation style and required sections vary by course. Use your instructor's brief as the final authority rather than assuming every research paper follows one template.
Understanding the concept is the first step.
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